Funded Grants

SEED GRANT

Grantee: The University of Alabama at Birmingham
Project Lead: Satoru Osuka, MD, PHD
Grant Title: Targeting Recurrent Glioblastoma Cells Using Collagen-Binding IL-12 and IL-7
Program Area: Glioblastoma
Grant Type: UKF Seed Grant
Year Awarded: 2024
Amount: $50,000
Duration: 1 year

Summary: This project aims to develop a new treatment for recurrent glioblastoma. We have created special forms of two immune-boosting proteins, CBD-IL-12 and CBD-IL-7, that can target the unique environment of glioblastoma tumors. These modified proteins are designed to accumulate in the tumor area without affecting healthy tissues, potentially reducing side effects. By combining these two proteins, we hopes to stimulate the immune system to fight tumor cells more effectively, particularly by preventing immune cells from becoming "exhausted" in their battle against the tumor. The study will test this approach in mouse models of recurrent glioblastoma to determine if it can shrink tumors and extend survival. If successful, this research could lead to a new, safer, and more effective treatment option for patients with recurrent glioblastoma, addressing a critical need in brain cancer therapy.